How Can You Gain an Autistic Person’s Attention?

Practical Strategies:

1. Use Their Name First – Begin by calmly calling their name to signal that you want their attention.
   
   
2. Reduce Distractions – Turn off background noise or move to a quieter space to help them focus.
   
   
3. Get on Their Level – Position yourself where they can see you clearly without feeling overwhelmed.
   
   
4. Use Visual or Physical Cues – Gently tapping a table, showing a picture, or using gestures can reinforce your words.
   
   
5. Keep Instructions Simple – Short, clear phrases work best. Break directions into small steps if needed.
   
   
6. Be Patient – Autistic individuals may need more processing time. Allow pauses before repeating yourself.

These strategies not only improve attention but also build trust and respect in communication. With consistency, you can create a supportive environment that helps them feel understood.

Looking for support?

At Divine Steps Therapy, we provide personalized ABA therapy in Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina to help children strengthen attention, communication, and daily living skills. 

Contact us today to learn how our ABA programs can support your child’s growth.

SOURCES:

https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/about-autism/autism-and-communication

https://raisingchildren.net.au/autism/communicating-relationships/communicating/paying-attention-asd

https://vcuautismcenter.org/documents/communicationandsocialskills/Skill_8_Getting_a_Persons_Attention.pdf

https://www.autismspeaks.org/blog/five-tips-helped-improve-my-childs-behavior

https://www.milestones.org/get-started/for-community-at-large/interacting-with-autistic-people